One in five Australian households have reported buying more alcohol than usual while observing coronavirus (COVID-19) lockdown laws, according to poll results released this morning.
A YouGov Galaxy Poll, commissioned by Foundation for Alcohol Research and Education (FARE), asked 1,045 people to describe their drinking habits during the pandemic.
FARE states that in households which reported buying more alcohol than normal, 70% of respondents said they are now drinking more than usual.
Just over a third of respondents state they’re now drinking every day. The figures suggest some Australians are turning to booze to cope with stress and anxiety, with 28% of respondents saying that’s the case.
Current alcohol consumption levels are notable, too: the poll states 32% of respondents are worried about the quantity of alcohol consumed by themselves or someone else in their household.
The findings have prompted concern from FARE CEO Caterina Giorgi, who called for increased oversight for alcohol advertising and delivery services, along with further government funding for support services during the pandemic.
The findings come weeks after bottleshops faced an influx of customers seeking to stock up on alcohol for an extended period under lockdown.
The rush on alcohol prompted industry giants including BWS, Liquorland, and Dan Murphy’s to impose limits on how much alcohol each customer could buy at one time.
Last month, the Alcohol and Drug Foundation warned that increased alcohol consumption may be a result of disturbances to our everyday lives.
“People might be struggling to adapt to disrupted routines and be unable to continue hobbies such as going to the gym, attending dance or art classes, or simply sharing meals with friends,” an ADF spokesperson said.
The ADF has provided a list of alternatives to drinking for anyone looking to stay connected during lockdowns.
Anyone who is concerned about their drinking, or the alcohol consumption of anyone around them, can reach out for help from Australia’s support services.
Help is available.
If you require immediate assistance, please call 000.
If you’d like to talk about your alcohol consumption, give the National Alcohol and Other Drug hotline a buzz on 1800 250 015.
If you are in distress, please call Lifeline on 13 11 44 or chat online.
Have something on your mind? You can reach out to BeyondBlue at 1300 22 4636 or chat online.
Under 25? You can reach Kids Helpline at 1800 55 1800 or chat online.
